Wednesday, May 19, 2010

My trip into the Past

Something very exciting has happened to me in the last few weeks.  Somehow, a fellow classmate from my high school appeared on my facebook page with a comment.  This started my journey into the past.  I have reconnected with old friends from high school and grade school.  My 50th high school reunion is in the works and I have been given an opportunity to attend this reunion. 

I was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, and have not been back for at least 35 years. During those years I lost contact with my friends and have now been able to find them again.  I am a great believer that things happen for a reason, and I believe this will give me an opportunity to “refresh” from my caregiving.

My husband’s daughters will be coming to California to care for their dad while I am gone.  They love him very much and I know he will be well taken care of.  I could not go if I thought otherwise.  Since his awareness is non-existent most of the time, I cannot take him with me.  He would be very confused and unable to process anything.  It would also be hard to care for him while traveling and staying with my friend.

The most difficult thing for anyone to do while caring for him is the incontinence.  He is bowel and urinary incontinent and has to wear depends all the time.  This will be hard for a daughter to take care of so I am exploring other possibilities. 

I know, in my heart, that this will all come together somehow. 

This may be my last chance to see friends and family that I have missed for so long, so I am going to take this trip and believe that all things will work out.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

I think your doing the right thing... By all means go to that class reunion...And have some fun... You might check with Social Services about a CNA or LVN to come in once or twice to check on everything... Just a thought... But go and have fun...

JudyJ said...

Thank you Mike, will try my best to have some fun and relaxation. Love your blog.

Wendy said...

Yes Judy - have a break and have some fun. Recharge yourself. For you to be the best carer you have to be in the best health yourself and that means mentally as well - some laughter and a little break are fine and will be of benefit to your husband in the long run as you will be refreshed. Have you actually spoken to your daughters about what is required. Maybe they are well aware and are quite prepared to do what is needed for their father. Maybe it is something they have to do in their lives and a lesson for them as well. Maybe you don't have to try and fix everything just exactly so before you go. Have a think about that. Peace to you, Wendy